In a robust defense against recent allegations, Gold Medalist, the agency representing popular actor Kim Soo-Hyun, released a comprehensive statement on March 18, 2025, to address mounting controversy over supposed connections between Kim Soo-Hyun and the late actress Kim Sae-Ron. The agency has taken a strong stance, dismissing claims made by HOVERLAB, otherwise known as the Garo Sero Research Institute, as well as accusations from Kim Sae-Ron's family.

Gold Medalist asserted that an individual who appeared on HOVERLAB, claiming to be a witness to an alleged familial relationship and referring to herself as Kim Sae-Ron’s aunt, is not actually related to the deceased actress at all. In their statement, the agency underscored the importance of verifying such claims and maintaining respect for the families involved during this sensitive time.

According to a report by Koreaboo, Gold Medalist insisted that they had indeed paid their respects to Kim Sae-Ron by attending her funeral on February 17 and 19, 2025, where they met with her family and presented a condolence wreath along with financial contributions. They countered the bereaved family's assertions that Gold Medalist neglected to support them during their time of loss.

Adding to the drama, the bereaved family stated at a press conference, "The late Kim Sae-Ron's mother does not have a married sister," implying that the informant interviewed by HOVERLAB had no legitimate connection to Sae-Ron. They elaborated that this woman was more of a second mother figure to Sae-Ron than an actual aunt.

Gold Medalist responded to the family’s claims by clarifying that the term "aunt" in media narratives typically suggests a direct maternal relationship. The agency indicated that the credibility of the informant’s allegations could be questioned given her uncertain ties to the family. Other industry sources previously indicated that this informant might also be the mother of a different actress, further complicating the scandal.

The agency emphasized, “The essence of any testimony should rely on factual evidence rather than the family ties of the informant. Despite pointing out the informant's credibility, we must address the tragic irony in the bereaved family’s comments regarding privacy violations while they themselves have allegedly leaked Kim Soo-Hyun’s private photographs.”

This incident highlights the complexities of family dynamics and media influence, raising questions about how tragedies and celebrity personas intertwine in the public eye. As the fallout continues, fans and observers are eager to see how this situation will unfold, and whether Kim Soo-Hyun will emerge unscathed from this scandal. Could this controversy overshadow his career, or will truth prevail in the murky waters of celebrity?